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Labour is a journey, which can take a long time…every woman’s labour is different…this leaflet gives you lots of suggestions to help with labour, especially the early part of 1st stage. Introduction Labour is a unique experience for every woman. No two labours will be the same. We will be here to support you through this special time and to help you to achieve the birth you have planned for. Wherever you choose to give birth, we are committed to keeping your labour as normal as possible. Your body will be preparing to give birth, making small changes that will start the journey of labour. Understanding this process and the latent phase will make this easier. What is the Latent phase of labour? This is the earliest phase of labour or pre-labour. The cervix has been closed for many months keeping your baby safe inside the uterus until the time comes for it to open to allow delivery. For labour to begin the cervix needs to become softer and thinner. The time this takes varies considerably and you may not be aware of it happening. Some women find latent phase contractions so mild they do not know they have experienced them. Others feel the contractions so strong that they are convinced this is active labour. This can lead to early admission to hospital followed by disappointment after hours of discomfort when they find they are still in the latent phase. The cervix during pregnancy starts out firm. During the latent phase, contractions cause it to soften and become thinner, allowing it to become pliable enough to stretch over your baby's head. If this is your first labour these changes require more time. By having a slow and steady latent phase you will have time to adjust to labour as the rhythm and pace of contractions increase. Remember – the ‘latent phase’ of labour can last a very long time, especially for first time Mums. What happens during the latent phase of labour? Your body is producing the necessary hormones, such as oxytocin, for the birth of your baby. The uterus (womb) is contracting irregularly, to try to figure out which muscle fibres to use for labour. During this time you may be unsure if these are Braxton-Hicks contractions or true labour. (BraxtonHicks are irregular contractions of the uterus occurring towards the middle of pregnancy in the first pregnancy and, earlier and more intensely, in subsequent pregnancies.) What else can you expect in the latent phase? • You may experience some blood stained discharge called “a show”. This can occur days or even weeks before labour begins • Contractions in your lower back or abdomen, varying from cramping to tight and painful. These may vary in frequency, coming often and feeling strong, then less intense and further apart • Increased pelvic pressure as your baby descends into the pelvis • Increased vaginal discharge • It is common to have irregular tightenings for a few hours, which fizzle out completely. This is entirely normal because your body is preparing in small stages • Your membranes may rupture (waters breaking), which can be a slow leak or a gush. Either way, contact us to let us know. These are all good signs – your body is preparing for the journey ahead. Be patient, knowing you will give birth when your body is ready What can you do to help you get through the latent phase? • Your labour companions can reassure you and help achieve a calm, tranquil environment • Eat well. Your body will need energy for labour – Eating little and often – carbohydrates (bread, pasta, rice, cereal) for slow – release energy plus sugary foods for quick-release energy • Rest and relax. Getting comfortable can be challenging, even when not in established labour. Try building a nest with bean bags/pillows/duvets so you can be on all fours on the bed, as lying down can be uncomfortable. Try rocking on a birthing ball or lean over it. Dim the lights and play relaxing music • TENS machines can help in the latent phase and early labour. These can be bought or hired. Many women find them beneficial – ask for a leaflet if you need more information • Breathing techniques are an effective way of coping with contractions. Holding your breath can cause more pain, because the muscles need oxygen to work effectively. As the contraction starts, focus on taking a breath in, allowing the breath out to be longer, slower and steadier. It can help if you inhale through you nose and exhale through the mouth • Massage – ask your partner / labour supporter to do this for you • Putting a hot water bottle on any areas that ache – your lower back • Trying a soft gel sports injury pack which you have cooled in the freezer – this can help with backache • Try relaxing in a warm bath • You may find it helps to make love – kissing, cuddling and having an orgasm all cause your body to produce oxytocin. This is the hormone which is also produced in labour and which makes the uterus contract. Nipple stimulation releases oxytocin also • Alternative therapies can work well. Aromatherapy, acupressure, hypnobirthing and massage from a qualified practitioner can help you manage Finally! Keep calm and relaxed so the body can produce the hormone oxytocin, needed for a short and easy labour. Home is often the place where you will feel most relaxed and where you will be more likely to produce oxytocin. Stress causes a release of adrenalin which can inhibit labour, increase its length and make the contractions feel painful. Often the move from home to hospital can result in a release of adrenalin. Also you need to be in the company of relaxed birthing partners who support you and are calm, research has shown that its best to limit the number of people who are with you as people coming and going is not good for your oxytocin levels. If you go to hospital in the latent phase, your midwife will encourage you to return home to relax and allow the hormones to work with your body. If you are concerned about any symptoms you are experiencing, feel free to call a midwife at any time (numbers at the end of this leaflet).